# God wants to heal us: reflections on the second sunday of advent
*2016-12-03*

> Bill Young reflects on the call to be missionaries of joy and healing, drawing on the teachings of Pope Francis and St. Mother Teresa.

## Prophecy and the Holy Spirit

I have been thinking recently about how God works through all of us, even in unexpected ways. I came across a video discussing a prophecy by Jim Clement from around 2007 regarding the presidency. It mentioned someone who might not initially seem religious but would become a great voice for our Lord and the Holy Spirit. It is a reminder that anyone guided by the Holy Spirit can do great things. Even in my own life, I noticed a coincidence; back in 2007, I started my first podcast called 'Pray, Pray, Pray.' God works through us all to encourage more prayer.

## The Urgent Call to Mission

For the second Sunday of Advent, we look at Matthew 10:7: 'As you go, proclaim this message: The kingdom of heaven has come near.' Some people on my Facebook page have suggested that some of my views are too radical, but I believe I am guided by the Holy Spirit through prayer. We are called to proclaim the good news to the world.

Quoting Pope Francis, we are reminded that Jesus did not want to act alone. He formed a community of disciples not to socialize, but to proclaim God's kingdom. This mission is urgent. There is no time to be lost in gossip or waiting for a consensus. We must go forth to bring the peace of Christ and healing to the sick, because God wants to heal us of every evil. Everyone must be a missionary, stepping out to the margins of life with joy and courage.

## The Power of Thoughtfulness

I also want to share a reflection from St. Mother Teresa on becoming more thoughtful of others. She noted that thoughtfulness is the beginning of great sanctity. When we learn the art of being thoughtful, we become more Christlike, as His heart was meek and always mindful of the needs of others. The Holy Family in Nazareth lived this way, making their home a dwelling of the Most High.

St. Mother Teresa warned that 'violence of the tongue' is very real and can be sharper than any knife, creating bitterness that only God's grace can heal. If our hearts are full of love, our words will reflect that love. We must be conscious of the power of our words and use them for the good of others.

## A Prayer for Guidance

I am deeply grateful for the support of my listeners. After nine years of podcasting with very little feedback, a kind comment from Sister Marie Renee reminded me that the Lord is looking out for my best interests and the interests of His people. I ask our Lord Jesus to help us through the Holy Spirit so that our words and actions always help others. May the Gospel reach every corner of the earth, and may everyone hear that Jesus came to love and save the world, not to condemn it.

*We are called to be missionaries of the Gospel, using thoughtful words and courageous action to spread the healing power and joy of Christ.*